DPReview.com is closing April 10th - Find out more

EF (1) 35-135 vs (2) 55-250 vs (3) 90-300 vs (4)100-300 and Tamron 70-300

Started 8 months ago | Questions thread
Rick T-137 Junior Member • Posts: 34
Re: 55-250 if it is the IS STM
1

Alan WF wrote:

There are three versions of the EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6:

  • EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS
  • EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II
  • EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS STM

I have the IS STM version, and it’s compact, light, very sharp, and focuses quite fast. If you are being offered a 55-250 IS STM, I would highly recommend it.

I have no direct experience with the earlier versions, but I have read that they are not so sharp.

Regards,

Alan

I have the middle one (55-250mm IS II) and I quite like it. Mind you, I don't have anywhere near the experience of most folks on this forum, but I found using the 18-55mm IS II and 55-25mm IS II on my M50 an excellent combination. I love the IS which allows me to take shots full zoomed (I don't have the steadiest of hands!).

Here's a shot I took of a Downy Woodpecker in my backyard from inside the kitchen through the sliding door glass:

Female Eastern Downy Woodpecker

As an astronomer, I know shooting through window glass is taboo... but I had to get this shot! The 55-250mm IS II is a bit sluggish to focus and it makes a bit of noise that while not very intrusive (you have to hold the lens next to your ear to hear it) makes me worry about the lens' longevity.

Cheers!

Rick

-- hide signature --

Camera: Canon EOS M50
Lenses: Canon EF-S 18-55mm + 55-250mm IS II, Canon 50mm f/1.8 STM

 Rick T-137's gear list:Rick T-137's gear list
Canon EOS M50 Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS II Canon EF 50mm F1.8 STM
Keyboard shortcuts:
FForum PPrevious NNext WNext unread UUpvote SSubscribe RReply QQuote BBookmark MMy threads
Color scheme? Blue / Yellow